Common Buzzard
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Accipitriformes, Family: Accipitridae, Genus: Buteo, Species: Buteo buteo
Family: Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites)
- Shape
- Relatively asymmetrical vane with a broad trailing edge and a narrower leading edge; the tip is rounded to slightly squared, characteristic of a soaring hawk.
- Size
- 17 cm (approx. 6.7 inches). This is consistent with a medium-sized Buteo species, falling within the expected range for the inner primaries of an adult Common Buzzard.
- Rarity
- Very Common. It is the most frequent raptor seen in Central Europe and France.
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Description
The Common Buzzard is a medium-to-large raptor with broad, rounded wings and a short tail. Its plumage is famously variable, ranging from almost pure white to nearly black. In flight, it is often seen effortlessly soaring in thermals or perched on fence posts along French country roads.
Colour & Pattern
Creamy white to pale buff base color. The distal end (tip) features dark brown barring and a broad dark terminal band. Fine brown speckling or 'marbling' occupies the outer web, typical of the highly variable plumage of this species.
Barb Structure
Pennaceous and tightly interlocked throughout the majority of the vane for flight efficiency; plumulaceous (downy) at the base (superior umbilicus) for insulation.
Texture & Surface
Smooth and firm texture with a slightly matte finish. The leading edge is stiff to cut through the air, while the trailing edge is softer.
Key Features
The combination of the creamy base, dark distal barring, and 17cm length is diagnostic for Buteo buteo in Western Europe. The 'marbled' pattern on the outer web is a classic Buteo trait.
Habitat
Extremely versatile; found in woodlands, open farmland, pastures, and steppe. They require trees for nesting but prefer open ground for hunting.
Geographic Range
Common across most of Europe (including Bourgogne, France) and Asia. Most European populations are year-round residents, though northern and eastern birds migrate to Africa or Southern Asia.
Ecological Role
An apex predator and scavenger. They play a vital role in controlling rodent populations (voles and mice) and often clean up roadkill.
Similar Species
Honey Buzzard (Pernis apivorus) has more distinct, regular tail and wing bands; Red-tailed Hawk (North America only) has different under-wing patterns; Northern Goshawk has more regular, fine barring.
Interesting Facts
The Common Buzzard is often confused with the Golden Eagle from a distance due to its soaring habits, leading to its nickname 'the tourist's eagle.' They are known for their 'mewing' call which sounds like a cat.
Condition Notes
Good condition. The barbs are mostly intact, though there is minor separation at the base. The lack of heavy wear or fading suggests it was molted recently.
Notes
Found in Bourgogne 17cm long